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The Freebee electric vehicle transports people in Upper Matecumbe Key. It’s part of a six-month trial to gauge interest and popularity.

By Jim McCarthy – November 30, 2018

Beginning Thursday, the Miami-based electric transportation company Freebee will be providing free rides within a section of the Upper Keys.

The ride service is embarking on a six-month trial to see if it’s worth bringing to the area on a permanent basis. Freebee provides the service to the public with environmentally friendly electric vehicles.

The company proposed the on-request transit service for Upper Matecumbe Key with plans and hopes to reduce vehicles on the road. At the same time, the serviceis a “green” alternative to visit local shops and restaurants. All people need to do is download the Freebee app, request a ride and jump onboard.

“We are very excited to be joining the Islamorada community with our launch this,” said John Januscz, economic development manager for Freebee.

The Village Council approved the six-month trial for the Freebee service for Upper Matecumbe Key.

The service is limited to Upper Matecumbe Key for the trial period since vehicles can only go 35 mph and cannot travel across the bridges of the Overseas Highway. The service will be evaluated and expansion, with vehicles that can travel on the highway, will be considered.

“We’ll see what the popularity is among the community and riders who try this service and see how businesses like it,” said Mary Swaney, public information officer.

Freebee will have two vehicles providing transportation on Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturdays from noon to midnight, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. To request a ride, customers must first download the free Freebee app. On the app, customers request a pickup and can view deals for local businesses.

Freebee has mainly provided its service on the mainland and the Miami area. For more information, visit ridefreebee.com.